Skilled nursing is different from a staff member at a nursing home as the nurses are required to have an RN or nursing degree. These medical professionals are able to help patients who are dealing with wounds, physical therapy, catheter care, and regular monitoring of vitals and require a degree where these skills are taught and mastered. The jobs done by skilled nursing staff can vary from where the patient is located. Here are a few differences in what skilled nursing jobs look like for patients located at home or at a nursing home facility. 

At Home

Depending on the patient's needs and abilities, skilled nursing staff members can come to the home of the patient to perform necessary medical needs. When patients are able to grow old in the comfort of their own home, they are oftentimes more comfortable and happier. By having skilled nursing come by regularly to check-in or offer physical therapy for these patients, they are able to continue living life as they normally would. The doctor of the patient will determine whether or not the patient is a candidate for at-home skilled nursing care.

At A Nursing Home

Patients that require assistance for daily activities such as getting dressed or using the bathroom are usually placed in a nursing home where the skilled nurses are able to help them 24/7. While many of the jobs performed are the same as those receiving at-home care, it is important to know that the skilled nursing staff is present at all times. This means that if an emergency situation were to arise, they could be there a lot quicker than if the patient was still living independently at their home. 

Making the Decision

When making the decision of where your patient or loved one will receive medical care, it is important to determine what the patient's insurance will help cover. The conversation should happen between family members, insurance companies as well as the doctors treating the patient. Skilled nurses are able to help a patient recover from injuries such as a fall, or work through pain through the use of physical therapy. Regardless of the patient's need and where they are located, skilled nursing is there to help them get back to feeling better in a short amount of time. Knowing that your loved ones are taken care of and receiving the services they need provides peace of mind for all involved in caring for the elderly. 

For more information on skilled nursing, reach out to a local medical health professional.